In the heart of a unique photoshoot lies the enchanting blend of traditional Russian folklore and modern wedding aesthetics, creating what can only be described as a “Modern Russian Fairytale.” This captivating project draws inspiration from a cherished children’s book, “The Magic Nesting Doll,” and brings to life a narrative where the bride is not just a participant in the story but the heroine who saves the day. With a carefully selected location and a team of talented creatives, this photoshoot offers a romantic and nostalgic vision, perfect for those who dream of a fairytale wedding.
The journey began with a Christmas gift to the planners behind this shoot, The Other Wedding —a beautifully illustrated children’s book titled “The Magic Nesting Doll.” While the book itself is intended for younger audiences, its stunning illustrations by Laurel Long and its unique twist on traditional Russian tales captured the imagination of the creative team. In this modern fairy tale, the protagonist Katya breaks a curse with the help of spirits from a matryoshka doll, reversing the traditional roles by saving the prince. This reversal of roles became the foundation of the photoshoot, setting the stage for a wedding concept where the bride is the true heroine.
The collaboration with photographer Martina Ruffini was pure luck. Her ability to capture the enchanting essence of this fairytale shoot, using masterful lighting techniques and attention to detail, brought the story to life in every frame. A shared vision and mutual admiration made this stunning project possible.
FutureLab 2.0, brimming with vintage Russian artifacts, served as the ideal setting. Its rich history and unique character added layers of depth to the visual storytelling, perfectly complementing the fairytale narrative.
Bridal looks played a pivotal role in telling the story. The first dress, with its elaborate floral designs and rich colors, paid homage to the traditional Khokhloma style, while the second dress, with its clean lines and simplicity, represented the phoenix’s rebirth. The traditional headpiece Kokoshnik, matching the design of the table settings and graphic elements, tied all the details together, ensuring a cohesive and visually stunning aesthetic.
Central to the photoshoot’s aesthetic is the Kokoshnik, a traditional Russian headdress historically worn by married women. Fascinated by its design, the team reimagined the Kokoshnik using a 3D printer, adorning it with embroidered fabrics that reflected the Khokhloma style—an intricate and traditional Russian painting technique. This modern take on the Kokoshnik symbolized the fusion of past and present, adding a layer of authenticity to the bride’s attire.
At the heart of the photo shoot is a story where the bride is not a passive participant but a courageous heroine. Accompanied by her loyal companions—the bear, the wolf, and the phoenix—she embarks on a journey of love and self-discovery. These symbolic animals were represented throughout the shoot in various forms, from ceramics that served as place cards to the design of the wedding cake, which embodied the phoenix’s rebirth. The narrative was further enriched by traditional Russian lacquered boxes, adding mystique and cultural heritage to the setting.
A traditional Russian tea ceremony added a communal and cultural dimension to the photoshoot. The beautifully crafted samovar, used to boil water for tea, became the centerpiece of this ritual. Accompanied by engraved glasses, ceramic spice containers, and a tray of colored Russian glass bottles, the tea ceremony was a moment of reflection and connection, honoring the traditions of the past while celebrating the love story of the present.
The embroidered napkins, placemats adorned with traditional fairy tale illustrations, and the intertwined asparagus runner evoke a timeless winter ambiance reminiscent of the final grand ball held by the Romanovs at the Winter Palace.
The phoenix gracefully nestles into the fireplace, igniting in a burst of dazzling red-orange sparks before transforming into shimmering silver ash. As this enchanting scene unfolds, her loyal companions stand by— the bear, now carved from wood, and the wolf tenderly keeping the bride warm.
The second dress symbolizes the rebirth of the phoenix, with its pure lines and forms embracing a cleaner, more modern design. The flowing wide sleeves add a touch of fairy-tale magic. As the water reflects our heroine in her new bridal attire, she steps toward brighter horizons, hinting at the future adventures that await her—adventures filled with the unwavering support of love: her love for the prince she saved, her loyal helpers, and herself.
This styled shoot captured by Martina Ruffini is a testament to the power of collaboration and creativity. By blending traditional Russian elements with modern wedding design, the team created a visual narrative that is both timeless and magical. This project is a source of inspiration for brides who dream of a wedding that transcends time and embraces the beauty of heritage and innovation.
I loved working with such a talented and creative team, where everyone brought their own passion and skills to make the project unique and special. The attention to detail and the harmony between the various elements, from the illustrations to the decorations, made the experience even more magical and satisfying.
